9 simple projects to create with leftover paint

Fun frames

You can use different tones of the same paint (just add white or black and mix well) or paint a series of old frames the same colour as your wall for a monochromatic, sculptural effect.

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Mail sorter/magazine rack

This lid rack turned mail sorter works equally well as a magazine holder. (Finally, a place to store all those back issues of Cottage Life you’ve been meaning to read). If you’re feeling really creative, paint the dowels different colours.

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Create some art

Highlight whatever you’ve already painted with some matching art. Simply take a brush, sponge on some paint dabs, and connect them with thin lines. Or go more abstract and fling your leftover paint at the canvas. Be creative!

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Painted glass jars

This project is especially effective if you’re using pastel paint, but any colour will work. Using a plastic syringe, squirt paint into the inside of a pretty bottle or Mason jar, and swirl to coat. You may need to do four or five applications to cover the inside of the jar completely.

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Branched-out necklace hanger

Paint a branch that has some sculptural interest a single colour and use it to hang necklaces.

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Colour-blocked utensils

Paint pretty stripes on plain wooden utensils for a whimsical and inexpensive shower gift. Seal with shellac to make sure the paint doesn’t chip off.

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Painted backsplash

This is a bit more of an ambitious project, but the effect is well worth it. You can see full instructions here.

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Play up a plain dresser

Whether you’ve already got a plain piece of furniture or decided to pick one up from a thrift shop, a little leftover paint in a contrasting colour can really dress it up.

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9 simple projects to create with leftover paint

You’ve finished that painting job—finally—and, of course, you’ve got a little bit left over in the bottom of the can. Before you drop off that paint at your nearest transfer station, though, take a look at these fun and easy projects you can do to use up that last little bit.

You’ve finished that painting job—finally—and, of course, you’ve got a little bit left over in the bottom of the can. Before you drop off that paint at your nearest transfer station, though, take a look at these fun and easy projects you can do to use up that last little bit.

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